Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Main Headline
A late-night, early-morning calzone shop has opened in Oneonta.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Religion column: Who do you say Jesus is?
As a pastor and caregiver of people for 20 years, I still marvel at the philosophy and beliefs of people I meet on the street when it comes to answering the question "Who is Jesus, and what does he mean to you?"
Main Headline
When Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-Hudson, was in Delhi on Aug. 17 to open her new office in the Charles D. Cook County Office Building, she took time to sit down with a group of county officials to hear what the local issues are and to offer her help.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Business Council president to speak
The president and chief executive officer of the Business Council of New York State will make two presentations in Oneonta on Thursday.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Religion column: God will be our stronghold
"God is Good, he is a stronghold in the day of trouble, and he knows those who trust in him" (Nahum 1:7). Nahum is a name in Hebrew that means "comfort," but these are the only words of comfort in his book. As one of the minor prophets of the Old Testament, Nahum shares this brief word about the nature of God and God’s relationship with his people who trust in him. God will be our stronghold in our time of trouble.
Looking forward to sheep stunts
At a trip to the Otsego County Fair, I thought I would be denied my first glimpse of the sheep olympics when I arrived there one hot evening looking for a story. The honorary fair director Bob Dutcher said the event was rescheduled out of concern to the animals.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Religion column: Compassionate service found through religion
The other day, when I was working on this column for The Daily Star, I came across a profound book on religion called "How to Expand Love." It was written by the Dalai Lama, who has been presenting his understanding of Buddhist spirituality to the Western audience through a number of profound and readable books such as "The Wisdom of Forgiveness," "Path to Tranquility" and others. I found "How to Expand Love" to be an appropriate book to read at a time when there has been much religious misunderstanding and intolerance among the people of the world.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Business Beat
The Oneonta Spice Co. has reopened on Main Street in Oneonta.
Religion column: Mission is possible one step at a time
I confess my own lack of faith when I consider the task before us as outlined in Matthew 24:14 where Jesus states: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come."
Religion column: Mission is possible one step at a time
I confess my own lack of faith when I consider the task before us as outlined in Matthew 24:14 where Jesus states: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come."
Religion column: God is calling us all by name
Zach was a wealthy man with a big problem. He was also a thief. Much of his wealth was obtained by dishonest means. He lived as a rich man, but also a man in rebellion against God; that is, until the day Zach heard God call his name. We’ll get back to Zach in a moment.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Insurance goes with marriage
COLUMBUS _ The phone rang and I hurried into the office to answer it, heard that familiar, sonorous voice say hello.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Religion column: The love of God is truly great
“The love of God is greater far
Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
It goes beyond the highest star,
And reaches to the lowest hell;”
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Foreign guide lists Private Drawers
An Oneonta business has been featured in an international shopping guide.
Private Drawers is among lingerie shops included in Shop Scouting World Wide, according to a news release.
Foreign guide lists Private Drawers
An Oneonta business has been featured in an international shopping guide.
Private Drawers is among lingerie shops included in Shop Scouting World Wide, according to a news release.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
C’town makes it a small country
You can take the girl out of Cooperstown, but you can’t take the Cooperstown out of the girl.
Guest Column: Native son Cooper still has much to teach us
Reading James Fenimore Cooper’s "The Deerslayer" was the beginning of a literary adventure that brought meaning and tremendous pleasure to my life. Cooper is a writer of great stature, whose influence can be seen in the diversity of his novels _ from the adventurous sea novel, the melodrama, to the modern western, and more. He profoundly influenced many writers including Melville and Hawthorne, Balzac, and with every year, his novels have stirred people.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Religion column: Open heart to Lord for change to occur
There was a harsh sound that caught Eli’s ear, the sound of bitter weeping. Shame and hurt, that had been held inside for years was being poured out. Eli caught sight of a weeping woman. Then the sound of weeping fades and Eli watches her lips form words without making any sound. Eli said to the woman "how long will you make yourself drunk?" "I am not drunk," she replied, "I am oppressed in spirit, I have poured out my soul before the Lord it has been out of my bitterness and provocation that I have been speaking."
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Face facts on enemy combatants
Earlier this month, a 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel in Richmond, Va., ruled the Bush administration couldn’t continue to hold Ali al-Marri, a Qatari citizen and a legal U.S. resident, in military detention indefinitely without charging him with a crime.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
I’d like to be
a little richer
It was not with a bang or a whimper that my dream of fame and fortune went down in flames _ it was with a postcard.
Religion column: Good neighbors start with you
Robert Frost penned a famous poem, "Mending Walls," beginning with the words "Something there is that doesn’t love a wall." But the line that most people remember is: "Good fences make good neighbors."
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Religion column: Take advantage of good things in life
As we evolve into the beauty, the sun and warmth of summer here in thearea of our City of the Hills of the Empire State, there are certainly worrisome challenges on the horizon.
Local Guest Column: Damaschke needs new ideas
The new facilities and other improvements unfolding at Damaschke Field will be a tribute to the many who have worked hard to bring them into reality, transforming a negative situation into a positive one for the city and area citizens.
Local Guest Column: Bill has pluses, minuses for migrant workers
The immigration bill in front of Congress is gasping for dear life. As an advocate for migrant farmworkers, I would like to provide a grass-roots perspective surrounding the estimated 12 million undocumented individuals and the proposed guest worker program.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Religion column: Jesus provided best birthday present for me
It was September 1967. The hippie movement was in full swing, along with anti-war demonstrations, draft-dodgers, long hair, beards and short skirts. I was 14 years old at the time.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Religion column: Another kind of Memorial Day
This day being set aside to honor our military forces is an important day. The Bible gives the command to honor those to whom honor is due, and is it not due to these ones who have put their lives on the line for us? We would say so.
Recovery goes on in Walton
Last year as Memorial Day weekend arrived, I was making final frantic plans to attend my son Kyle’s wedding June 10.
I wouldn’t have believed anyone who told me that a year later, such an important anniversary would almost slip my mind as I began to dread the arrival of June and that other flood of memories.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Local Guest Column: EPA, NYC plan will hurt Delaware County
Who doesn’t support a pristine environment and open space? On the face of it, it would seem that everyone might be in favor of the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to tell NYC to spend $300 million to buy land and conservation easements in its watersheds over the next 10 years to prevent building a filtration plant for its water supply from the Catskills.
Religion column: Don’t judge people on looks
Sometimes in our American culture, the context of public discourse turns just plain silly; the way a fun-house mirror distorts a person’s image. In fact, it is a matter of image that sparks this piece.
Dropout rate of zero hard to keep
While Downsville Central School had no dropouts on a recent state report tracking what happened to students who started high school in 2002, Superintendent Robert Mackey said that to maintain that level will require a lot of hard work from school faculty.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Religion column: What is truth? How do we find it?
Websters describes the truth as a body of real things, events and facts, a transcendent fundamental or spiritual reality, a judgment, proposition or idea that is true or accepted as true.
Troopers’ duty is
to protect the public
The Margaretville trooper shootings happened more than two weeks ago.
The funerals are over. Some of the questions have been answered. And the state and regional television media have moved on to the next big story.
Words escape event
I don’t think I have seen anything that can compare to what I saw Wednesday morning in Delmar.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Business Beat: Ex-Ames being fixed for tenants
Further work is being done at the former Ames plaza in Oneonta, but Town Supervisor Duncan Davie said the construction isn’t to serve any particular retailer or tenant.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Religion column: God won’t nudge you back forever
In the spring of 2005, we moved back home _ both of us born and raised here, leaving after high school for a life down south and raising a family.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Business Beat: No Starbucks planned for Oneonta
A long-persistent rumor about Starbucks coming to Oneonta may be just that _ a rumor.
"At this time, I don’t have any information about a store coming to the area, so I can’t confirm it," said Emily Murray, a spokeswoman for Starbucks.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Christian life requires daily devotion to God
The Christian world had just been celebrating Lent, Holy Week and Easter. Various segments of Christianity tend to emphasize different aspects of this rich tapestry of events. The Western churches are rather "hung up" on the Crucifixion and the atonement, while the Eastern Christians tend to emphasize the resurrection leading on to Pentecost. For all, it is a wonderful, holy time of the year.
Local guest column: Accept the science behind global warming
Recent editorials and commentaries in the media, including in this newspaper, have asserted that there is disagreement among scientific experts about the fact and/or cause of global climate change. Such comments are, at best, misinformed and, at worst, dishonest.
Reporter’s Notebook: Essayist almost got to see Sinatra
An Oneonta resident will have an essay published in an upcoming book on Frank Sinatra. The author, Joseph Fioravanti said he has been a fan of the singer since he was 13, when Sinatra came up with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra in the 1940s.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Religion column: These traveling Quakers finally settle down
Our Quaker experience began nearly 40 years ago in Bloomington, Ind. We were introduced to Quaker Meeting through a woman that my wife had met as both were pushing strollers during an anti-war demonstration (this was the mid-’60s).
Species, diseases are not welcome
Not too long ago, I paddled around an Oneonta wetland helping a group of volunteers get rid of an invasive aquatic plant _ water chestnuts.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Religion column: These traveling Quakers finally settle down
Our Quaker experience began nearly 40 years ago in Bloomington, Ind. We were introduced to Quaker Meeting through a woman that my wife had met as both were pushing strollers during an anti-war demonstration (this was the mid-’60s).
Species, diseases are not welcome
Not too long ago, I paddled around an Oneonta wetland helping a group of volunteers get rid of an invasive aquatic plant _ water chestnuts.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Business Beat: IRS warns of tax-time ’phishing"
Even as people are finishing their taxes, the Internal Revenue Service is warning people about "phishers" who are trying to lure people into sharing personal information.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Religion column: Easter answers `Who is Jesus?"
Sunday, in Christian churches throughout the world, the joyful shouts will go up: "Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!" The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is absolutely pivotal to the Christian faith. Everything else swings on that, so much so that the Apostle Paul, writing to early Christian believers in the Greek city of Corinth, could say: "if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile."
Odyssey students give fresh approach
I never thought a morgue could be funny.
A group of students from Sidney Central School, however, made it just that.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Small-business deadline is near
April 23 is the filing deadline for small businesses affected by the flood to apply for aid, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Return to beat sets off alarm
As part of the aging demographic, I have entered that mature phase of my life where I set off metal detectors.
It’s not my magnetic charm that’s the culprit here _ it’s my new knees.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Religion column: Lent is time to repent, grow
Growing up in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, I vividly remember how the people religiously observed the season of Lent. The intensity of the observance builds throughout the season that culminates with Holy Week. Everyone in the Philippines seemed to participate in the observance of Lent, regardless of their religious traditions.
Sap story yields neat statistics
Working on a story about back-to-back Maple Weekends provided a lot of interesting statistics about a state industry that produces one-sixth of the nation’s maple syrup.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Religion column: Celebrate Patrick of God
It is a common saying that everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Everyone apparently wants "a piece" of Patrick, but much of what is known about him is merely popular myth. Indeed such is the mystique around the man born in the 4th century since Christ, that it is nearly impossible to separate fact from fiction.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Guest commentary: War is not the answer for Iraq _ or for Iran
Congress will be voting soon on a $93 billion supplemental appropriations bill to support the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. And that is just to get us through the summer.
Guest commentary: Global-warming fears need skepticism
With all the buzz in the air concerning man-made global warming, I decided to watch Al Gore’s "An Inconvenient Truth." Twice. At first glance, Gore provides compelling evidence to persuade the public to take seriously the effect of carbob dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. Using computer models, Gore prophesized that by 2050 our earth will be dramatically compromised. With polar ice caps supposedly melting, ocean levels supposedly rising, more frequent and intense storms, we must curb our prodigal ways to avert impending disaster.
Religion news: Jesus under attack again
Well, they’ve done it again. Each year, during Lent or just before Easter, it seems that somebody in the news media or the movie/book industry takes it upon themselves to attack Christian faith through an expose or "factual" presentation of some shocking new discovery that the church (usually those mean guys in the Vatican _ and I’m not a Roman Catholic) have suppressed for centuries. A few years ago it was Dan Brown’s "The Da Vinci Code." This year’s entry in the field is the Discovery Channel’s documentary on the discovery of the ossuary (burial box for bones) of Jesus and his family.
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Guest Commentary: Soccer Hall didn’t miss opportunity
I was somewhat dismayed when I read your editorial of Thursday, March 1, "Soccer Hall can’t miss opportunity." I acknowledge that the column is titled "In Our Opinion," however, even opinion ought to be based on facts. Your editorial was not.
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Religion column: All should learn Torah teachings
"Describe your belief system." This statement I posed to my English IV students studying Renaissance literature. It was a time when print established an awakening mode of communication, especially with Gutenberg printing the first Bible.
Science students to learn by doing
Sidney Central School recently was awarded a $74,500 grant by the State Farm Insurance Youth Advisory Board to be used for, among other things, developing a model to better predict flooding on the Susquehanna River.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Guest commentary: Farewell to the citizens of Oneonta
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for giving me the honor of being your police chief in the city of Oneonta for almost 25 years.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Religion column: Lent is time to reflect on God, relationships
On Wednesday, we entered the most solemn and demanding period in our church calendar. On Ash Wednesday we were asked to commit ourselves to consider the reason and progress of Christ’s journey to the cross and the difference it makes in our lives. As we prepare to walk with Jesus through the path of Lent, we are called to a time of deep spiritual examination and prayer.
’Blue Pup’ gets advice on energy
The heartland of New York could be a leading alternative-energy center, one of the nation’s newest Blue Dog Democrats said last week.
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Religion column: Counterfeit or true treasure?
Have you noticed in your visits to the banks or credit unions the warnings given you to verify checks for deposit into your account?
Bowls sold for art’s sake Headline
The Super Bowl provided a chance for the Upper Catskill Community Council of the Arts’ School of the Arts to have a fundraiser.
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Guest commentary: Conservatives should move past culture wars
Last November, as the probability of the Democrats assuming control of Congress loomed, Jean Jones of Afton wrote The Daily Star and warned of the dire consequences we would suffer, should that happen.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Guest commentary: DWI laws don’t need changes
I was disappointed to read our local lawmakers’ response to what they perceive as a problem with the New York state DWI laws. Too often lawmakers look for a correct "political" response to an issue and forget the fundamental concepts upon which our country was founded, such as the presumption of innocence and the right to trial by jury.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Religion column: Declare your faith; live by it
A person who counts himself among obedient servants of the Lord must testify to faith in the One God and to acceptance of his prophet (Muhammad, Jesus or Moses, peace be upon them all, depending on the religion one follows sincerely).
Noting reasons
for pride
Bassett Healthcare Director of Human Resources Bruce Wilhelm’s recent appointment as the chief administrative officer for the new hospital in Sidney gave him time for reflection.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
IRS makes online filing available
E-file and Free File are available again through the Internal Revenue Service.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
`It’s going to be our problem"
With most of the people at an anti-war vigil in downtown Oneonta on Thursday over the age of 40, and some of whom I knew had protested the Vietnam War, Kristen and Zach King stood out.
Religion column: People today need the Lord
Matthew 11:12 indicates the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. How we think affects whether we live in victory or defeat, success or failure in confronting life’s difficulties. Proverbs 23:7 teaches the way we think in our heart affects the way we are.
Saturday, January 6, 2007
Religion column: Resolve to work for equality, justice for all
A week ago, we said goodbye to the year 2006 and welcomed a new year. There are many rituals people follow as they welcome a new year. Many people drink a toast, looking forward to a good year, with health and happiness. Some watch the ball drop at Times Square. Others ignore the whole thing and are off to bed before the New Year arrives. Many people make New Year’s resolutions.
Don’t count on babies
to make deadlines
I have learned at least one very important lesson at The Daily Star: Babies cannot be trusted for a deadline. A colleague called me around noon Monday to inform me that, no, we did not have a New Year’s baby. Scrambling for a backup, I figured that the last baby of 2006 would work as a story, and I started calling hospitals to see who had a baby Dec. 31.
Thursday, January 4, 2007
From the publisher: First Night Oneonta a winner
The planning may have been behind the normal schedule, but the First Night event in Oneonta clearly has plenty of life left in it.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Religion column: New year offers new start with God
On Dec. 31, the clock will strike midnight, ushering in another new year. Some people stay up until midnight to welcome the new year. Others stay up to make sure the old year leaves!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Wilber buys mortgage company
The Wilber Corporation has bought a Saratoga County mortgage company.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Religion column: Give the gift of reconciliation
The Christmas season is upon us again. Hours are spent thinking and looking for just the right gift for someone who is on our list.
Guest commentary: All teenagers don’t think alike
A newspaper is meant to be well-written, well-supported and accurate. Last weekend’s colum "No one cares to stop cheaters," by Jessie Matus, did not meet any of this criteria.
Concerts abound; goldfish survive
A recent visit from the Tebe Poem Chamber Choir made headlines not just in Oneonta, but also in the group’s native Siberia.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Religion column: Give the gift of reconciliation
The Christmas season is upon us again. Hours are spent thinking and looking for just the right gift for someone who is on our list.
Guest commentary: All teenagers don’t think alike
A newspaper is meant to be well-written, well-supported and accurate. Last weekend’s colum "No one cares to stop cheaters," by Jessie Matus, did not meet any of this criteria.
Concerts abound; goldfish survive
A recent visit from the Tebe Poem Chamber Choir made headlines not just in Oneonta, but also in the group’s native Siberia.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
All Yankees games to be shown
Yankees fans can breathe a sigh of relief. All 162 games will be broadcast next year through Time Warner Cable, spokesman David Whalen said.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Religion column: One cannot be neutral on Jesus
One of our most cherished Christmas carols begins with the question, "What child is this who laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping?" Answering "Jesus" is not enough. The question probes deeper into the nature of this historical figure.
Saturday, December 2, 2006
Buddhist ideas for a season
of gratitude
This is again the season of focusing on gratitude and our roles of expressing that in our families and communities.
Reporter’s Notebook: Public eye can be good and bad
As anyone who works for The Daily Star can tell you, working at a community newspaper has its advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, it’s a fantastic way to get to know the local area. On the other hand, when you put yourself into the public eye, you never know what the consequences might be.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
We do truly need Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving is the most uniquely American of all our holidays. Some would argue for the 4th of July, but most democratic nations have Independence Day celebrations. The French have Bastille Day. Mexico celebrates its Cinco de Mayo, and the Irish observe the Easter Rising and Easter Rebellion.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Religion column: Choice brings accountability
The Scriptures declare that God holds men accountable for their acts. As found in Alma 12:14: "For our words will condemn us, yea, all our works will condemn us; … and our thoughts will also condemn us …"
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Religion column: Choice brings accountability
The Scriptures declare that God holds men accountable for their acts. As found in Alma 12:14: "For our words will condemn us, yea, all our works will condemn us; … and our thoughts will also condemn us …"
Saturday, November 4, 2006
Religion column: Spiritual care not about religion
I am the spiritual care coordinator of our local three-county hospice program. Many people have absolutely no idea what that means, and truthfully, it is difficult to describe in words. Perhaps it would be better to tell a story to illustrate spiritual care. In order to protect the subject’s privacy, names and certain details have been changed, but such details are unimportant.
Religion column: We must move past labeling
When I was a kid growing up it was "mill girls." When I was in graduate school it was "blacks." When I listen to talk radio its "Muslims," or at worst "Rag Heads"; and when I listen to TV news, it's "illegal aliens." Labels!
Betting on babies and Santa
This week, for example, I helped Dr. Chris Kjolhede win a bet with Bill Stamp, director of marketing and corporate communications at Bassett Healthcare.
Saturday, October 7, 2006
Religion column: Give thanks for feathered, furry or finned friends
This Sunday, we will invite anyone in the community to come our church garden at 2 p.m., and to bring their "animal companions" for a service of blessing. We will gather around the statue of a man in the simple robe, belted with a rope, and ask God to bless those furry, finned or feathered friends who share our lives.
Reporter's Notebook: Some can save; others need help
Otsego County's social-services commissioner drew a few gasps from the Oneonta League of Women Voters during a speech last month when he said the number of sexual-abuse cases reported annually in Otsego County has nearly tripled since 2002.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Guest commentary: Torture not practical or moral
By Rep. Sherwood Boehlert
The Administration and Congress are engaged in one of the most contentious debates I have witnessed during my 24 years in the House of Representatives.
Religion column: Common phrases don't make sense
Check out these commonly used phrases. Are they really true? I'd like to look at some of these goofy sayings and shed some light upon them. Brace yourself; if what I say gets you upset, well, maybe you need to look at things from a different angle.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Hospital Guard Killed
Virginia Tech shut down its campus Monday and ordered everyone to remain inside as authorities searched for an escaped inmate suspected of killing a hospital guard and shooting a police officer near the university.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Business Beat: Housing prices increase in four-county area
Changes in housing sales were mixed across the four-county region from July 2005 to July 2006, according to recent numbers from the New York State Association of Realtors.
Saturday, September 9, 2006
Religion column: A religion beyond my imagination
I would never have dreamed it up. Did you ever think of a religion you would have made up? Had I been thinking up a religion, I would have made room for my achievements. I would make it so I could impress God with how good I am, how dedicated I am, how religious I am — plenty of rites and ceremonies, complete with sights, sounds and smells. I would have an elaborate list of things to do, and not to do. It would be impressive.
Reporter’s Notebook: ’War on fear’ still with us
When I began my newspaper career with an internship at the Legislative Gazette in Albany, I was looking forward to five months of watching how a bill became law.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Health Column: Multiple treatment options exist for prostate cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer found in men. It is the third leading cause of cancer death in men after lung and colorectal cancers. In 2006, it is estimated that about 234,000 cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States. There are many misconceptions about this form of cancer, as well as confusion regarding the most viable screening and treatment options available.
Guest Comment: Catalyst plant good for city and nature
I am writing to respond to some misstatements and factual errors contained in the letters to the editor from Martin Wank and Daniel Blacklock regarding Catalyst Renewables and the Roundhouse Renewable Energy Park. Catalyst is a developer, owner and operator of renewable energy facilities. We are committed to a facility design that protects the environment in the community of Oneonta. We strive to be a valuable, contributing member of the community and know that expectation is upon us.
Local Guest Comment: No one benefits from Israel-Lebanon conflict
In responding to recent columns on the Mideast by Tom Sears and Sam Pollak, I acknowledge that I was raised a liberal Protestant with no particular instruction in Mideast politics. I support Israel’s right to exist.
Religion Column: God’s divine plan offers solace, even in difficult times
For years, I have served as a counselor at Pathfinder Lodge, an American Baptist Camp in Cooperstown. I have also taught painting and harmonica classes to youths at camp. It is always a joy for me to watch the faces of new youths coming from different family backgrounds, city or country, from throughout New York state.
Wednesday, August 2, 2006
Business Beat: NBT reports higher quarterly income
NBT Bancorp has had an increase in income for the second quarter of 2006 compared with last year despite last month’s flooding, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Local comment: A letter never written
I just turned 33 years old. It’s been a good life so far. My job is secure. I have more patients in my physical therapy practice then I can handle, so I’ve hired an assistant.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Guest commentary: Cherry Valley shouldn’t delay in allowing wind power
Reunion Power is asking Cherry Valley residents to examine the benefits of the East Hill Wind Farm and to allow the project to go forward, regulated by a local wind-power law rather than be blocked by a moratorium.
Reporter’s Notebook
When the rain began June 25, it didn’t seem like anything more than a wet end to a wet month.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Business Beat: Bank branches share space after flood
The NBT Bank branch on Oneonta’s Southside and the Wilber National Bank branches in Sidney and Walton will remain closed until further notice, according to information from the respective banks.
Guest Comment: NYRI must be stopped from constructing line
Initial opposition to New York Regional Interconnect’s proposed power line through central New York appears strikingly similar to the battle against Marcy-South 25 years ago. Unfortunately, this bodes well for NYRI’s proposal.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Religion column: God’s commands applicable today
Some people in our country are trying to take God and all things pertaining to god out of any public place in the USA. This saddens many of us who feel that our country was founded on the principles of the commands of God.
Reporter’s Notebook: Helping the less fortunate
About 20 Cooperstown High School students were to deliver school supplies this week to a class in the Bronx as part of a project for their sociology elective, according to Cooperstown history teacher Jennifer Pindar, who teaches the class for juniors and seniors.
Religion column: Fathers can learn from God’s example as Heavenly Father
This Sunday is set aside as Father’s Day. What a great opportunity to encourage our dads in these difficult days around us. We need to remember that no matter what kind of father we have been, there is always a new beginning. Consider the Parable of the Prodigal Son, Luke 15:11-32 To summarize, it consists of a young man who takes all of his entitlement, leaves home and wastes it in foolishness. He soon finds that he is in a desperate condition, and is groveling for food even among the pigs.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Religion column: Yoga helps mold heart, body, mind for spiritual life
Hinduism is the oldest and most complex religion of India. It gave birth to three major faiths, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, as well as to the spiritual discipline of yoga. As offshoots of Hinduism, each of these offsprings emphasizes a unique characteristic of the parent religion by making that aspect its core principle.
Local Guest Comment: Abortion can be a moral decision by women
I was inspired by attending the national Planned Parenthood Federation of America conference in Washington, D.C., early this spring. Although political forces have been arrayed in opposition to the rights of women and men to control their own reproductive lives, it is heartening to know we are not alone in our determination to maintain our moral freedom and responsibility.
Wednesday, May 3, 2006
Business Beat: Excellus wants clients to claim checks
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is looking for about 50 people and nearly 10 providers in Otsego County who haven’t claimed checks from the company.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Guest Comment: Canon and crucifixion: What about Gospel of Judas
On April 6, the National Geographic Society in Washington created a sensation by presenting a team of biblical scholars and scientists to explain the newly-discovered archeological treasure: \
Saturday, April 1, 2006
Religion column: Jesus can help change destructive nature
What comes naturally to us depends on our nature, culture, society and how we were brought up by our parents. These related, yet individualistic, characteristic parts are the sum of our true nature.
Learn to listen with a new way of understanding
I’ve been out of seminary for almost 16 years. A lot of facts have been forgotten over the years. I wasn’t very good at memorizing. Tell me a story, though, and it will live with me a long time, especially if it is pertinent to life.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Local Guest Comment: Oneonta should take time with woodburning plant
As a former science teacher, I have always been interested in ways to cut pollution problems. A wood-burning plant would certainly help if it were taking a coal-fired plant out of existence. However, a wood-burning plant in Oneonta may cause economic problems and some concerns for the city.
Wednesday, March 8, 2006
Business Beat: Cracker Barrel not planned for Oneonta
The Cracker Barrel chain is not considering the Oneonta area for a possible location within the next two years, a company spokesman said Tuesday.
Tuesday, March 7, 2006
Understanding colorectal cancer and how to prevent it
During March, the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation spearheads a national campaign to increase the public’s understanding of colorectal cancer.
Saturday, March 4, 2006
Religon column: Love should be shown to everyone
The hot sun beat down upon the weary body laying alongside the road. Blood from the open wounds mixed with the dirt and rock that cradled him.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Religion column: What the truth is is hard to define
Why does the church exist? Why did Jesus Christ, as most Christians affirm, call the church into being and give to it its faith, its life and its authority?
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Sidney auto-parts store opens this week
The Advance Auto Parts store in Sidney will open Thursday, according to a news release from the corporation.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Lowe’s says Oneonta positions filled
All positions have been filled for the Lowe’s store opening soon on Oneonta’s Southside, a company spokeswoman said Tuesday.
Tuesday, February 7, 2006
Health Column: Women need exercise so they can enjoy heart health
This February during American Heart Month, health-care providers and the American Heart Association are working to raise awareness of the increased threat of heart disease among women. Many of us know that high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, excess weight and high cholesterol are risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease. Did you know that exercise can impact heart health too?
Religion column: We must learn to trust in God
Biblical Israel, a piece of land about 150 miles long by 50 miles wide, has more variety in geographical features, plants, animals, elevation and weather patterns than anyplace else on earth, making Bible geography a fascinating study.
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Religion column: Those who turn to Creator win
Through spiritual association, believers may find what is for them and be able to continue on the straight path. Without connection to divine knowledge, gatherings are empty, with no benefit. So many religious gatherings today become worldly. People come together in places of worship to collect money, but their spirits are empty.
Guest Comment: Church and state must separate ... to preserve church
Today, conservative evangelical Christians claim credit for electing and re-electing President Bush, having direct influence on administration officials, determining Bush’s choice of Supreme Court nominees, and shaping an array of legislation supportive to their values.
Monday, January 21, 2006
Religion column: Faith important in times of chaos
Quakers believe there is that of God in every person and that we are commanded not to kill. We have a long history of seeking alternatives to war, being exhorted to \
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Business Beat: Agency to hold its annual job fair
The annual Chenango-Delaware Otsego Workforce Career Expo and Job Fair is scheduled for next week, according to a news release.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Religion column: Respecting others’ beliefs a blessing
Arriving in Hartwick during July 1984, our family sang in all three village churches espousing the traditional Christian belief system. I secured overnight employment with The Upstate Home for Children and Adults. This position was a futuristic blessing in our new country environment.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
On The Right Side: Liberals need to wake up, be patriotic
I’ve heard enough. It’s time to take the gloves off. I am sick and tired of hearing my commander-in-chief and legitimately elected president (twice legally) being belittled, joked about, and especially being called a liar.
Health Column: Regular screening can help prevent cervical cancer
January is Cervical Cancer Screening Month. It is appropriate to begin the year by reminding women to make a pledge to take their health seriously and get screened for cervical cancer. Detection and treatment of this disease has improved greatly over the past 60 years because of the introduction and widespread use of the Pap test. However, because of inadequate access to regular health care, lack of insurance and confusion about the importance of frequent testing there are still regions of the United States where higher rates of this disease are found, including here in central New York.
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
On The Right Side: U.S. spying should be supported
Thursday, Dec. 15, was a very historic moment. The Iraqi people turned out in amazing numbers to take part in their first democratic election. It is estimated that up to 70 percent of the eligible population took part, even with the risks of suicide bombings and other dangers. Americans have a poorer turnout for our elections without the risks. This should put us to shame.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Business Beat: Adoptable pets listed on website
The Victory Farm Foundation in West Winfield has recently started listing animals on petfinder.com that are available for adoption.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Taking on Cindy Sheehan
About a week ago I attended a presentation by Cindy Sheehan.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Religion column: Let Advent season recharge your life
Sometimes the holidays bring with them an emptiness and loneliness that can be hard to bear. The Advent season is upon us with the message that life needn’t be empty for us — ever! We acknowledge that we are not abandoned.
Guest Comment: City not being fair to CSEA in contract negotiations
We would like the community of Oneonta to consider the following. Sit down at your kitchen table, grab a cup of coffee, and read this article. Put the politics aside, put the art of negotiating aside. These are the facts.
Wednesday, December 7, 2005
Business Beat: Cooperstown gallery to hold opening
The Gil Galleries will have an opening reception between noon and 7 p.m. Dec. 17 at 149 Main St. in Cooperstown, said co-owner Susan Donadio.
Tuesday, December 6, 2005
Travels With Uncle Chet: Uncle Chet makes a list
COLUMBUS — No one went hunting the other day. It was cold, and you could hear the wind come off the hill. The spindly red pines by the driveway bent over, then creaked as they tried to straighten up after a gust blew out. Snow came down at a steep slant and felt like cold pebbles in the face.
Saturday, December 3, 2005
Religion column: ’Tis the season to practice patience
Have you noticed: few of us have mastered the art of patiently waiting. One wag blames the 24-hour discount retailers for this problem. If you can buy anything you want exactly when you want it, why wait?
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
On The Right Side: Column is opportunity for opinions
I want to thank The Daily Star, especially Sam Pollak and Cary Brunswick, for the opportunity to be the paper’s local conservative columnist.
Saturday, November 26, 2005
Religion column: Freedom must be balanced with righteousness
As Americans, we pride ourselves on our belief in and commitment to the principle of freedom. Our nation has been wise to place among its highest values that of a free-market economy, religious freedom and freedom of speech and the press
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Religion column: We must all thank God for his goodness
Thank God, for goodness’ sake. With all the concerns recently about war, terrorism, avian flu and the natural disasters we’ve observed here and around the world, there appears, at first glance, to be little to be thankful for.<
Wednesday, November 2, 2005
Business Beat: Government honors Excellus program
One of the programs that Excellus BlueCross BlueShield offers recently received recognition from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Tuesday, November 1, 2005
Out Of Right Field: Foster home isn’t right for town
Problems are the same no matter where you go. Susan and Iwent down to Virginia Beach this weekend to attend the wedding of our good friends Rudy and Laura.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Travels With Uncle Chet: The rich pull strings for Bush
COLUMBUS — We were tooling down the road to watch the little miscreant play soccer, wipers squeaking in the drizzle, when the news came on. Mostly downturns today. Wilma eyeing Florida, more dying in Iraq, indictments coming in the Plame case.
Tuesday, October 5, 2005
Business Beat: Lowe’s to recruit at local job fair
Representatives from Lowe’s Home Improvement will be taking employment applications at the Chenango-Delaware-Otsego Workforce Center in Oneonta this week.
Tuesday, October 1, 2005
Guest Comment: Wear a purple ribbon for domestic-violence victims
For 10 years now, I have worn a purple ribbon on my left lapel. It is a daily reminder for me of survivors of domestic violence and abuse and the work I believe in doing. The purple ribbon gives folks the opportunity to ask what it stands for and to share their feelings and experiences of domestic violence and abuse.
Tuesday, October 5, 2005
Business Beat: Lowe’s to recruit at local job fair
Representatives from Lowe’s Home Improvement will be taking employment applications at the Chenango-Delaware-Otsego Workforce Center in Oneonta this week.
Wednesday, October 5, 2005
Business Beat: Lowe’s to recruit at local job fair
Representatives from Lowe’s Home Improvement will be taking employment applications at the Chenango-Delaware-Otsego Workforce Center in Oneonta this week.
Saturday, October 1, 2005
Guest Comment: Wear a purple ribbon for domestic-violence victims
For 10 years now, I have worn a purple ribbon on my left lapel. It is a daily reminder for me of survivors of domestic violence and abuse and the work I believe in doing. The purple ribbon gives folks the opportunity to ask what it stands for and to share their feelings and experiences of domestic violence and abuse.
Business Beat: NYSEG warns about fake messages
Messages left for New York State Electric & Gas Corp. customers warning of rate increases because of Hurricane Katrina did not come from the corporation, according to a news release.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Travels With Uncle Chet: ’Support our troops; get them a leader&rsquo
COLUMBUS — We were eating goose and cornbread Sunday night and Uncle Chet was with us, since Alice had gone south to see her daughter. She lives in Georgia, hundreds of miles from the nearest hurricane or tornado, but we’ve all been feeling anxious for our Southern relatives who’ve been taking such a battering from global warming.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Religion column: Second Coming, fact or fiction
In a recent grocery shopping jaunt my wife and I engaged in checkout conversation with the cashier, a vibrant young woman with a zeal for the classic sounds of the ’70s.
Guest comment: Picking a chief justice: Eisenhower’s ’first vacancy&rsquo
Finding the right person for chief justice of the United States is a serious matter. If John G. Roberts Jr. is confirmed as chief justice, he’s likely to be around for a long time; he is only 50. Because of the life tenure built into the system for all federal judges, not many presidents get to appoint a chief justice. We’ve had 43 presidents but only 16 chief justices.
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Guest Comment: Oneonta can set example on energy
Earlier this year, as gasoline prices spiraled ever higher, I began talking informally with several community leaders and friends about our nation’s chronic dependence on foreign oil. Without exception, the people I talked to expressed acute frustration.
Religion column: Have compassion to share with humanity
As the reports of Hurricane Katrina rolled in, we heard and saw the destruction of property and the helplessness of the victims of this natural disaster. Each one of us watched as the images and stories unfolded.
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Guest Comment: Best choice of voting machine being ignored
On Aug. 30, a guest commentary by the Delaware County election commissioners was published on the required use of the full-face ballot in New York state elections and how that is affecting the choice of new electronic voting machines, for which counties will pay in future years. I would like to respond to their comments.
Wednesday, September 7, 2005
Business Beat: Local businesses help Katrina efforts
Various local businesses, among other churches and organizations, are participating in relief programs for those affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Tuesday, September 6, 2005
9/11 center a disgrace for victims
Sunday will be the fourth anniversary of the day that changed America.
I can still remember where I was standing when I heard the first reports of plane crashing into the North Tower, and wondering if the airliner my father and I had saw earlier that day flying low was that plane. Then came the reports of the second plane hitting the South Tower and realizing we were at war.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Guest Commentary: State law limits choices on HAVA
Recent letters to the editor regarding the Help America Vote Act have led us to believe that their writers have acted on incomplete or erroneous information.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Out Of Right Field: Hungerford is best for Delaware
It gives me great pleasure to formally endorse my cousin, Meg Kenyon Hungerford, as the next Republican candidate for Delaware County treasurer. I think Meg is the right person for the county during this crucial time.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Religion column: The church should be like rock, water
I’d like to share a thought with you about rock and water. The Bible tells us in the Book of Hebrews, chapter 10, that the Law (Old Testament) was a shadow of things to come in the New Testament.
Reporter’s Notebook: Well worth the wait
Toe-tapping polkas and waltzes could be heard at the Main Street Plaza in Oneonta when Harmoniemusik Maingruendel Jugendkappelle, a band from Germany, played for more than 150 listeners Friday.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Business Beat: Brewery to open in Garrattsville
A new brewery in Garrattsville should be distributing its product by November or December, one of the partners in the project said Tuesday.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Travels With Uncle Chet: Gas is up; relative is gone
We were on the turnpike, going 70. Everyone around us was traveling at least as fast as we were, winding through the Berkshires, forested hills wilting in the tropical heat. The new truck was air-conditioned and comfortable, and Toby Keith was singing \
Reporter’s notebook: Animal tales from Delhi Tech
While answering questions about having pets on campus, State University College of Technology at Delhi spokeswoman Kimberly MacLeod was able to speak from personal experience.
Saturday, August 6, 2005
Guest commentary: Bombs saved millions
With the 60th anniversary of the dropping of the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, and the end of World War II, I offer these observations from the perspective of a participant in that war, and how I and other members of our U.S. Navy ship felt — and how most of us still feel.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Religion Column: We must choose to use God’s image for good purposes
It’s possible that people in my church know me as a word rambler. When it comes to world affairs, politics, even religion, I find myself at various losses as to what to say. I’m not proud of that fact. I like to think that I’m a free-thinker. However, the older I get, I wonder if it’s just that I’m just not so sure any more about absolutes. Not that I ever was. The colors of this world are so much more than black or white!
Thursday, July 28, 2005
Business Beat: Washers to clean Doubleday Field
Doubleday Field in Cooperstown will get a facelift before the festivities of the Hall of Fame Induction Weekend begin Friday.
Saturday, July 23, 2005
Guest Commentary: Why N.Y. should use optical-scan voting machines
In the next few weeks, state and local officials will begin the process of selecting a voting system to replace our 100-year old lever voting machines to comply with the Help America Vote Act. HAVA requires voting machines to be accessible for persons with disabilities and to be capable of providing a voter-verifiable paper ballot so that a voter can double-check the accuracy of his or her vote.
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Reporter’s notebook: Club aims to rid world of disease
The Southeast Otsego Rotary Club is a small group with big goals. Its members aim to help people in their hometowns of Worcester and Schenevus — and in other countries.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Out Of Right Field: Life under al-Qaida is scary idea
In 1998, Osama bin Laden issued a fatwa that al-Qaida would not limit its attacks to government and military targets. It explicitly stated that Americans anywhere in the world were targets, and that it was OK to kill women, children and civilians of Muslim countries.
Tuesday, July 5, 2005
Dropping a bomb at the fireworks
When the first rocket soared above distant treetops and burst in a shower of red, the kids let out a big cheer.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Northrup tells board reasons for appeal
Several members of the Delaware County Board of Supervisors raised questions about why District Attorney Richard Northrup appealed Judge Carl Becker’s determination that the New York City Department of Environmental Protection police did not have jurisdiction throughout Delaware County.
Savor good times and weather bad with God’s spirit
Summer has finally arrived, according to the calendar, and God seems to agree and has put winter blahs and complaints behind us in this year of our Lord 2005. How we enjoy the warmth and beauty and fragrances of the air and flowers and shubbery now!
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Out Of Right Field: Saddam deserved to be ousted
Removing Saddam Hussein and his thug sons was necessary. They had a history of supporting terror. There was also an alliance between al-Qaida and Iraq.
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Religion column: What is Zen? Many things
By Zen Master Wu Kwang
In the early years of my practice of Zen, my father would periodically ask me whether Zen was a religion or a way of life.
Guest Column: Why deny a chance to Twelve Tribes?
I am writing to comment upon several issues pertaining to the Twelve Tribes and its proposal to buy a property and create a coffee shop/restaurant on Main Street in Oneonta. Having taught courses and given numerous talks to professional groups and others on religious cults, I would like to share my perspective.
Wednesday, June 8, 2005
Business Beat: Schoharie home sales up 160
In a month where housing sales statewide slowed, according to the New York State Association of Realtors, Schoharie County had the second largest increase of sales in the state.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Our future depends on farming
Wednesday is June 1 and the start of Dairy Month, the month-long celebration of the dairy industry. I have decided to write about a subject very dear to me: agriculture, especially American agriculture.
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Guest column: A GI’s testimony on the battlefront
FOREWORD: Ralph E. Lent, a native of Otego, was a World War II veteran and former prisoner of war who, for the most part of his life, relived the horrors of starvation in a German work camp.
Religion column: Follow prophets and speak out against injustice
By The Rev. Judith Quarles
The famous prophets of the Old Testament heard God’s voice and risked speaking out against injustice. Their example should inspire all of us to speak out when we are confronted with situations that are clearly wrong.
Saturday, May 7, 2005
Guest Comment: Let’s take care of those who are uninsured
A self-employed middle-aged man came to my medical office recently, complaining of rectal bleeding. After examining him, I recommended he undergo a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the bleeding, and particularly to rule out cancer. But he had to refuse the procedure; he had no health insurance.
Friday, April 30, 2005
Religion column: Resurrection means more than having eternal life
By Father Timm Holowatch
The Jewish and Greek word for Easter, Pascha, means Passover, a passage. It refers to the passage of the Jews from the slavery of Egypt to freedom, from exile into the Promised Land. For us Christians, the word Pascha means the ultimate passage from sin to salvation, from death to life through the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Guest commentary: In Thailand, terrorism is a concealed reality
By Paul Conway
Thanks in part to a faculty development grant from the local chapter of United University Professions, I was recently able to spend more than a week in southern Thailand investigating the problem of terrorism. I had some contacts with several Thai teachers who had previously studied in Oneonta and was able to arrange for roughly two dozen interviews and extended conversations before my visit.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
50 years ago, nations met to discuss survival
By Sugwon Kang
Fifty years ago Monday, on April 18, 1955, delegates from 29 Asian and African nations gathered at Bandung, Indonesia, for The Bandung Conference: Surviving the Cold War.
Religion column: Christians must profess belief in Jesus Christ
By Gil Williams
Last May, The Daily Star gathered people from many different religious beliefs for a luncheon and forum at Brooks’ House of Bar-B-Q’s Banquet Room in Oneonta. Present were representatives from just about any religion or sect I have ever heard of. Hindu, Muslim, Jews, Unitarians, Mormons, Baha’is; there were Roman Catholics and all the main-line Protestant denominations. There were several Evangelicals, and this writer was one of them.
Reporter’s notebook: Delaware men miss Harleys
Daffodils nodding in the breeze, fishermen along the rivers and the roar of motorcycles signal that spring is in full swing — but two Delaware County men can’t join in the fun of the season.
Tuesday, April 9, 2005
Religion column: Anti-Semitism not among Bible’s true teachings
During the season of Lent, I preached to the good folks at First Presbyterian Church from the Gospel of John. This year’s offerings from the Revised Common Lectionary, a three-year cycle of scripture readings, included some of my favorite \
Tuesday, March 26, 2005
Will March go out like a lamb
National Weather Service meteorologist Dave Nicosia was right on the money Feb. 27 when he said the region was going to be in for a chilly and snowy first few weeks of March.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Will March go out like a lamb
National Weather Service meteorologist Dave Nicosia was right on the money Feb. 27 when he said the region was going to be in for a chilly and snowy first few weeks of March.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Religion column: True prayer can bring healing
By Cindy Dunne
What is prayer? Is prayer merely pleading with a sometimes responsive deity or is it something deeper, something more profound? Are we benefited by praying? What did Jesus mean when he gave his disciples the Lord’s Prayer after they asked him how to pray?
Reporter’s Notebook: Parade for troops poignant, emotional
When the soldiers from the National Guard 204th Engineer Battalion Company A arrived in Walton on March 5, there were some people in the crowd of onlookers who expressed poignant thoughts.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Religion column: Only the One, True Exterminator can rid you of your sins
By The Rev. Roger Yoder
In the middle of January a couple years back we had big black ants in the parsonage living room and dining room — seemingly popping out of nowhere — crawling on the rug and up furniture.
Guest Column: Movies can contribute to teen smoking
Teens from Delaware County and around the world say they plan to rally to stand up to Hollywood and help save lives. Their goal is to pressure major U.S. movie studios about their promotion of tobacco products toward youth.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Guest comment: Information on Countryside needed
By Jeffrey Harris
Since Delaware County received two unsolicited offers for purchase of the Countryside Care Nursing Home, there has been much fear, uncertainty and doubt, or FUD, about the future of the facility, much of it due to the lack of information being provided by either the county or the proposed buyers.
You won’t see me wearing pink on Valentine’s Day
I’m quite bitter toward Valentine’s Day. It’s a commercialized, overblown, made-up holiday, and I’m sure few could tell you the real roots of the holiday.
Saturday, February 12, 2005
Guest comment: Deer are hurting state’s ecosystem
By Tom Salo
The deer harvest was down. Some hunters are suggesting it’s the end of the world as we know it. Even The Daily Star editorial board has weighed in urging DEC to look at the \
Religion column: God can show you how to truly love
By the Rev. Larry Major
Do you have your affections fixed on worthy things? Many are the objects of our affections. Few things merit the honor.We are told in God’s word that the love of money is the root of all evil, yet we live in a greedy, self-seeking age. Many have their affections on the temporal things that money can buy. 1 John 2:15 says \
Tuesday, February 8, 2005
Guest commentary: Worthy programs mustn’t be trashed
By Gilbert Williams
Although this will seem to be lording the Democratic Party, it is intended to give the facts. In some areas, the Democratic Party is woefully lacking, as seen by the recent election. I would give attention to the two best programs the federal government initiated in the 20th century.
Saturday, February 5, 2005
Guest commentary: DEP must make good on promises
By Joan Homovich
Since September 2003, the residents below the Pepacton Reservoir along the East Branch of the Delaware River have suffered through six floods. That is more floods in a year and a half than the previous 27 years.
Religion column: Try as they might, no one will ever be able to explain God
By Jim Atwell
It’s a brash act, taking on explaining God. The job is impossible. An Infinite Being must be beyond finite grasp, much less explanation. But because we so hunger for understanding, some in every age and faith have tried to trap God and his ways in human ideas and words.
Saturday, January 29, 2005
More than recipes found at cook-off
By Emily Farmer
On the morning of Feb. 11, The Daily Star’s 45th annual cook-off will begin. Eager chefs will gather at the Hannaford supermarket on Southside Drive, and judges will prepare their scorecards. The folding chairs will begin to fill up with curious onlookers.
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
Duke Diner regulars are losing safe haven
After hearing the news, I ordered my favorite, the chicken and broccoli scampi, like a condemned person ordering a last meal, but it wasn’t I who was condemned. Rather it was the Duke Diner, sentenced to be sold and torn down; its last day is today.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Religion column: You never know what acts Allah will like, dislike
By Sheykh Abdul Kerim el-Kibrisi
Millions of Muslims gathered this week on the plain of Arafat as part of the Pilgrimage to Mecca. The rite of Arafat is a foretaste of Judgment Day. It is a reminder of one’s destiny to stand alone, but among all humanity, before the Creator, to account for one’s life, and to await judgment. However, the lifelong preparation for Judgment Day is to overcome heedlessness and conduct our daily lives in an \
Saturday, January 8, 2005
Religion column: What is included in Bible isn’t all that was written
By Thomas A. Pritchard
I read Father Timm Holowatch’s recent column on the religion page of The Daily Star with great interest. I am sure that any number of other Christian clergy and laypeople, perhaps even a majority, would not take issue with most, if not all, of what he posits in his writing.
A new year can mean a healthier life
As the holidays wind down and we are all geared up for those New Year’s resolutions, let’s increase the probability of meeting those resolutions. There’s a long list of the usual promises we make to ourselves and to others: \
Saturday, December 24, 2004
Hard travelin’: Finding an escape in routine
So much of this driving is mundane.
Syracuse on a Tuesday. And back. Dunkin’ Donuts, large coffee with cream and sugar, two Boston cream doughnuts. Gas at the Red Apple. Interstate 88. Bainbridge to Greene. Whitney Point to Interstate 81. Salt City.
Saturday, December 15, 2004
Real-estate group buys gifts for kids
Needy children in the area will get a helping hand this holiday from members of the Otsego-Delaware Board of Realtors.
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Travels With Uncle Chet: Looking
COLUMBUS — When the telephone rang at 7:30 in the morning, I knew it was either a complaint or Uncle Chet.
Saturday, December 9, 2004
Guest Commentary: Midem gives music industry a voice
By Janet Nepkie
Next month, music industry representatives from around the world will meet at Midem, the annual convention held in Cannes, France, to talk about ways to protect music and other intellectual property from theft, and to find new ways to help expand the audience of music around the world.
Saturday, December 4, 2004
Religion column: Buddhism teaches all we do shapes what we become
By Ellen Sokolow
The basic Buddhist teaching is that of conditionality.
Everything arises through dependence upon conditions. Nothing has a fixed and final essence — and this includes us.
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Hard Travelin’: Songs for an ugly November
The coffee maker works, again.
It is a Bunn homemaker, the smaller sibling of those shining, multi-plated monuments to Good Mornings you will find in most diners.
Religion column: We must interpret Scripture through church tradition
By Father Timm Holowatch
First, as Orthodox Christians, we have to remember that the Scripture was given to man through the church. The New Testament was written by those who belong to the church, and the writings of both Old and New Testaments were identified and accepted as Holy Scripture by the church. Therefore, we have a strong basis to proclaim that the church is the author of the Bible.
Saturday, November 23, 2004
Guest commentary: Get the most out of financial aid
By Jason Tabor
For several million students and parents each year, the late summer and fall is a season of choices about college.
Planning a child’s post-secondary education is a complex and difficult process with the underlying questions of, \
Using more providers can save lives
When my mother suffered a heart attack in my home, I dialed 911 and requested both Gilbertsville EMS and Cooperstown Medical Transport to respond.
Religion column: Greatest Jihad is one against ego
By Sheykh Abdul Kerim al-Kibrisi
Bismillah. Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, returning with his companions from battle, addressed them saying, \
Saturday, November 12, 2004
Hospice care provides options for terminally ill veterans
Veterans have served our country and followed orders without question. They have lost comrades, made lasting friendships and lived through many experiences. They have fought to maintain our freedom while others can only dream of being free. For what they have done for those of us who haven’t served, we are thankful, and they will be remembered Veterans Day, which is Thursday.
Saturday, November 6, 2004
Religion column: Ten Commandments should rule nation
By Mitch Wright
The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:2-17) controversy has divided evangelical churches, though marvelous it is that they now seem even more divided than they were ere the commotion erupted!
Saturday, November 4, 2004
Guest commentary: Bullying must be taken seriously
By Stephanie Clark
I have recently had the opportunity to speak to a school official regarding my son who has been bullied. It seemed as though he was all ears. In fact, he stated that my husband and I had his full attention.
Saturday, November 3, 2004
Mobile slaughterhouse opening
Schoharie County will soon be home to the state’s first mobile livestock processing unit.
Saturday, October 29, 2004
`Random Voter’ views on polls about election
Have you ever met anyone contacted by an election polling service? We hadn’t either, until The Daily Star’s system managers, Bruce Endries, was contacted by Zogby International.
I guess you could call me Mr. Random.
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
Uncle Chet: Red Sox and Kerry in same league
COLUMBUS — Uncle Chet is not overtly religious, but he loves a church supper, even when he’s treating the whole family.
Saturday, October 23, 2004
Religion column: Whose word are you listening to
By Gina Aswad
The Lord God once caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam. God removed a rib from the side of this man and built up and created woman. She was brought to Adam.
God has provided path to salvation for all believers
Many people stay away from studying the Old Testament because they feel that it is too hard to understand. I feel there are many examples for us to apply in our lives today.
Saturday, October 9, 2004
Site of Nick’s Diner provides look into past
ONEONTA— You have to feel for Bernie Stanley over at Nick’s Diner on Chestnut Street. The state has required him to set up a handicap-accessible ramp leading to his front door. That might not have been that much of a problem except that a cliff of solid rock blocks the way. Mr. Stanley has been hard at work with chisel and hammer hacking out enough rock to make way for the ramp. By the time he is done, he may need the ramp himself.
We must work toward another Great Awakening
Let me start off by saying that I love political discussion. I enjoy studying the philosophy of human government and engaging in lively debate. I am conservative in my political views, and I vote according to my conscience.<
Tuesday, October 5, 2004
Guest Health Column: Parents play critical role in children’s academic success
Each fall, many parents focus on the back-to-school routine that involves shopping for school supplies and clothes, getting haircuts and enrolling students in extracurricular activities such as sports and dance lessons. These actions might ease the adjustment from vacation to school days, but preparing a child for a healthy and productive academic experience requires much more.
Saturday, October 4, 2004
Guest commentary: Don’t paint students with one stroke
I have been many things in college. This is my third year involved in student government. I am involved with Greek life. I have been in many clubs, written for the college paper and even started a Frisbee team. As I now work on completing my senior year at SUCO, I thought I had done it all. It was very surprising, then, to pick up The Daily Star on Sept. 27, to find that I am now one more thing: a terrorist.<
Saturday, October 2, 2004
Hard Travelin’: Dispatches from an old, pleasant road
A woman named Gay did the flowers for the wedding. She runs her shop out of the back of a video store in King Ferry. She lives above the store. She did a fine job with our flowers, and even spoke to me in terms I could understand. Then, she let me go listen to the baseball game while she talked to the ladies.
Saturday, September 27, 2004
Guest Commentary: Bars more trouble than they’re worth
By Gary Schroeder
I own a commercial property in Oneonta near a tavern. Twice already this year, glass has been broken at this property. Once a window; the other, a glass entry door. Who did this?
Saturday, September 25, 2004
Many routes to find ancestors
Joe Genealogist has come to an impasse.
Like many genealogists, he has always been drawn down the road less traveled. For him, this means seeking out those ancestors who can not be easily found, those who hide within the depths of unknown dark allies in unlikely repositories and archives.
The new year is moving day for soul of Jews
The month of September is one in which many people change their dwelling places. Moving vans are busy transporting household furniture from one place to another. But this is also the season of the Solemn Days when Jews celebrate the advent of a New Year.
Saturday, September 22, 2004
AAA club opens car-care center
The AAA Tri-County Motor Club in Oneonta is joining a national trend of opening car-care facilities at AAA club locations.
Saturday, September 18, 2004
Holding my hand to the Buzzsaw
We snuck around at night, slow-drifting a borrowed car up to darkened buildings. We ran with tied bundles of newsprint tucked under our arms. It was clandestine, rebel journalism. Our paper would grab them — all of them — by the throat and pull.
Saturday, September 11, 2004
Internet a boon to historians
For nearly two years during World War II, dozens of Jewish refugees survived the Holocaust by hiding in caves deep in the dark heart of Ukraine’s Gypsum Giant cave system. Their stay of 344 days in one cave is the longest running recorded time a human being has spent underground. The story is truly one of the most amazing tales of human survival and endurance.
Saturday, September 7, 2004
GOP confab highlights language, wit
At the opening of the Republican Convention, between prayers and soft rock music, John McCain said that President Bush could \
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Kerry will rap with our allies
COLUMBUS — Alice went into the house to see Hon and the kids, and Uncle Chet inspected new stacks of wood that framed the side yard.
Health guest column: Weight can be controlled with surgery and lifestyle changes
The decision to have weight-loss surgery was not an easy one. At the age of 40, I was morbidly obese. I had Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and back and knee pain, and my life was very limited by my weight. I lived daily with the stereotypes against fat people that are common in our society today.
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Early roadside attractions still thrive
News that U.S. Route 20 has recently been approved to become an official scenic byway between Duanesburg and LaFayette was greeted warmly by many businesses and organizations along this historic roadway.
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
Two types of surgery can help treat severe obesity
Obesity is a major cause of disease, disability and death in America. At Bassett Healthcare, this medical condition is a primary focus of our research efforts.
Saturday, August 21, 2004
Guns were drawn in Cherry Valley
Abraham Roseboom may have been looking forward to being in a quieter, more peaceful location when he moved to a place just south of Cherry Valley in 1805.
Suffragettes protested on local corner
In this presidential election year, it will be interesting to see if the issue of adding a constitutional amendment that forbids same sex marriages is either debated or gets introduced.
Saturday, August 7, 2004
Town hall was a result of recycling
Some may not realize it, but Davenport’s Town Hall and Historical Society building has an interesting history to it.
Two cities, bird hearts and Marah
The sun dying behind row houses lit the parking lot dust storms of an Acme grocery store in South Philadelphia.
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Uncle Chet: End of war may dictate November election
COLUMBUS - It had been hazy, cool for July. As the sun went down, clouds grew darker and thicker. A cool breeze stirred from the west, and I drew my canvas chair a little closer to the campfire.
Saturday, July 10, 2004
The Burr-Hamilton duel, 200 years later
Somewhere along the banks of the Hudson River on the New Jersey side, at the edge of a small town called Weehawken, not far from the mouth of the Lincoln Tunnel, there lies a spot believed to be the site of a duel that claimed the life of Alexander Hamilton.
Saturday, July 3, 2004
The source should not affect search
Genealogists are No. 1! That is to say, we are number one on the pedigree chart. But, when it comes to the reasons behind why records about people are created, genealogists are far down on the list. Governments, churches, organizations and businesses all create records that are useful for genealogists. However, these records are very rarely maintained with the family historian in mind.
Saturday, June 26, 2004
Of propane, pancakes and papers
The girls invited us to a barbecue in Ithaca. We showed _three of us _at the park with potato salad and a bag of potato chips. I think, and memory fails me a little this morning, we brought the burgers, too.
There is never enough time to enjoy loved ones
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose ...Ÿ Most people are familiar with the verses from Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8 about time, because they were made into a popular song in the 1960s by the Byrds, called "Turn, Turn, Turn." I always liked the song, and the wisdom of the words.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Guest Column: Talk to your doctor about cancer concerns
Each June, people throughout the United States and Canada celebrate Cancer Survivor Day, which traditionally is the first Sunday in June, according to the National Cancer Survivors Day website.
Monday, June 21, 2004
Making some magic out of nothing at all
Well, I can scratch one thing off my must-do-in-this-lifetime list. No, its not scaling Mt. Everest or skydiving above the Pacific rim — although I wouldn't mind if that happened soon. No, it's a little tamer than those activities — but exciting all the same.
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Reason for tracing ties can change
In this country of so many freedoms, some of the most ordinary and everyday things we do seem to be a given. Indeed, many other countries restrict rights to activities which may appear to us to be harmless. Imagine being denied the freedom to chart your genealogy.
Modern concepts of fatherhood can stem from a belief in God
Have you ever thought about how we develop a concept of fatherhood from our knowledge of God the father? Now, we have heard it said that, "God is the Father of us all." We've been assured that he is accepting of all men without discrimination and with only minimal requirements.
Saturday, June 12, 2004
Nashville: An ugly interruption
Marriage, at its basest level, is a promise: "I will kill someone for you." All of the flowers and tablecloths and shining, breezy things were stripped from the agreement on Interstate 40, outside Nashville, Tenn. We stood in the wind at a British Petroleum gas station; left with our rings, our bodies, and a moment so brief and sharp I could feel my heart and lungs clenched and sore well into the night.
All civil marriages are a great benefit to society, families
In September 1970, I did what many other young people do. I got married. This seemed to me to be the logical progression in my life. I met my husband. I fell in love with him. We wanted to get married and have children.
Tuesday, June 8, 2004
Film may tell truth of Bush, bin Laden
COLUMBUS - "Bush and bin Laden in '04," said Uncle Chet, who'd brought out a pitcher of lemonade for the thirsty gardeners. "That's Kerry's biggest nightmare."
Guest Column: Adults must set example for wearing helmets while bicycling
Spring is in the air, and outdoor activities are increasing. Now is the time of year we see more kids on the roads on their bikes, and as parents and drivers, we need to recognize that and be aware of the added risks on the road.
Monday, June 7, 2004
Hollywood here I come
Rolling, action, cut! I never dreamed I would get a chance to hear those words — no less directed at me. But I became very familiar with those words while being filmed in my big role Thursday morning. I got to play a fortune teller in a Japanese television series being filmed in Delhi.
Saturday, June 5, 2004
Don't run from old handwriting
If you are lucky, at some point in your research you've come across a document old enough and valuable enough as to be indecipherable to you. While you may not think this is lucky, the first encounter with old handwriting is the most important. Learning to read it is a skill which will prove invaluable to you in your research.
Gay marriage laws provoke thought about reason for bond
As most people know by now, on May 17, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. And so for the first time in American history, legal marriage has become available to couples consisting of two men or two women.
Saturday, May 29, 2004
Warm thoughts for cold sport
The immeasurably mismanaged National Hockey League announced last week a television deal with NBC and ESPN granting the league the lofty sum of $0 for network broadcast rights, as well as slashing coverage and payment from ESPN nearly in half.
Teach children the true meaning of Memorial Day
"The greatest love a person can have for his friends is to give his life for them." John 15:13 (Good News Bible). This weekend is a great national holiday in the United States of America.
Albany should look at obvious solution
To most people, it came as no surprise when, for the 20th year in a row, New York state's dysfunctional political system failed to produce a budget on time. This year's stumbling block appears to be the governor's and Legislature's inability to agree on a plan to fix the state's inequitable and unfair school-aid formula in time to meet a looming court-ordered deadline.
Show military members how much we appreciate them
Last month, Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month. We did this to provide an opportunity to reflect on how our nation has benefited from the sacrifices and contributions of our military.
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Make May the time to start getting more active
If the words "physical fitness" make your stomach feel queasy, take heart in knowing that exercise need not be hard and can actually be fun. Now is a good time to get more active since May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. So, what is the big deal about physical activity, anyway?
Monday, May 24, 2004
Guest Health Column: Advances in asthma treatment mean easier breathing
Imagine a firefighter emerging from a burning building after inhaling significant amounts of smoke and fumes. As expected, she would experience a good deal of coughing and shortness of breath. If taken to an emergency room, the medical staff would find that she was working hard to breathe.
Saturday, May 22, 2004
Tips for successful research
Top 10 things about genealogical research that they never taught you in kindergarten:
Christians must have the courage to be different
The majority of my life people have been telling me that I am "different." Most of them couldn't verbalize why, they would say instead: "There's just something about you."
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
Milk price becomes more realistic
Is the price of milk at the retail level "high" when compared to other products? Let's look behind the scenes of milk production to get a better understanding.
Monday, May 17, 2004
I may be batty, but rabies shots just aren't any fun
OK, so I have always had a fascination with vampires and Dracula. I even wrote a term paper about the famous bloodsucker in college. But I never thought that I might actually come face to fang with one. Well, at least one of his little winged cousins.
Saturday, May 15, 2004
`Prank' can lead to danger for many
On Oct. 27, 2003, I, was arrested for the crime of falsely reporting an incident. This is a felony offense. I was arrested shortly after pulling a fire alarm in a dorm on the campus of Hartwick College.
The return of elusive bald eagle
The morning started with the gray sky leaching its filth onto the pages of the newspaper to bring us news of the death and humiliation overseas. After a glance, the paper, sagging with rain, was laid over bills that would wait to be paid, late.
Live out your faith to make faith real
Most folks in our land — Christian, Jewish, Muslim and of no clear religious faith — are decent and caring people, coping as best they can with personal, national and world issues, in this exciting and at times bruising planet earth.
Tuesday, May 11, 2004
Imagining life under the Mafia
COLUMBUS - "Imagine if the Mafia ran the country," said Uncle Chet, sipping wine as the sun went down. "Would we notice any difference?"
Saturday, May 8, 2004
Don't forget books as tool for research
A few months ago, I posted the top genealogy-related Internet sites. While the list was, in general, greeted with enthusiasm by my human friends, I have had to dodge several complaints elsewhere.
Use springtime to help explore mystery of God
"Spring at last!" upstaters cheer. After winter's snow and ice, we soak up the sunny days of spring. We marvel at life waking everywhere: trees sprouting an array of delicate greens; sparrows scrounging in raked lawns; daffodils and tulips sprouting sunward.
Saturday, May 1, 2004
Press freedom is limited at times
The First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America protects freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly and petition.
The gravity of Saturday in Roscoe
If we could have grasped the greater entity that was Jupiter on Route 17 that weird Saturday, I think we might have done something other than drop him off on the highway.
We must combat pride with humility
We live in difficult and trying times. The moral fabric of society is unraveling, and it appears that we are reaping what we have sown. It is quite apparent that the harvest is not wholesome. Unless something changes soon, we can only expect more of the same.
Tuesday, April 27, 2004
The outlook for patients with schizophrenia has improved
More than 5 million Americans suffer from a severe mental illness in a given year. Severe mental illness is more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease. In recent years, famous people have shared their experiences with mental illness. Nobel prizewinner in mathematics John Nash's story of his struggle with schizophrenia was shared in the recent award-winning movie "A Beautiful Mind."
Saturday, April 24, 2004
Keeping Revolution spirit alive
Since the time of the American Revolution, the ideals of patriotism and freedom have been an inherent part of our society. The inspiration for action (in both times of war and peace) and perseverance in our way of life can be found in the stories history tells us. Indeed, the lives and hearts of those who took the risk and valued the outcome those many years ago continue to drive our country forward today.
Substitutes gave their lives for mine
It was a cold morning. I remember it as though it were yesterday. The ground seemed to be frozen as it glistened from the frost. My co-worker and I were working on a construction site in Pennsylvania, where I am from. We were asked to lay some water and sewer lines in the housing development where we were working.
Saturday, April 17, 2004
Christians must fight secularism
The enemy of spiritual renewal is secularism. Without even realizing it we fall prey to its philosophy and live a secular life in this world. It is a cunning enemy that disguises itself in the guise of being the friend of the church, but it is a wolf in sheep's clothing.
I loved how Charles saw `America'
An old box of books souring in my grandparents' attic was returned to my possession last weekend. I let it sit in the truck bed, wedged into a corner with a pair of hockey gloves and pieces of firewood. It spent two days there, collecting dust and rattling along with the broken rhythm of I-88.
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
DARE program works for many
A recent letter-writer stated that the DARE, or Drug Abuse Resistance Education, program is completely ineffective and counterproductive.
Saturday, April 10, 2004
Portraits can speak volumes
Imagine if the images in old photographs could come alive and speak to us. What would they tell us? Perhaps, like the portraits in Arthur Symons' poem, old pictures really do tell us something about their subjects. Maybe, if we look closely, we will see a bit of the character which rests within these lost lives.
Travels With Uncle Chet
COLUMBUS - We were in the school's cafeteria, packed with people at the last Lenten fish fry. Young and old lined up, took a divided food tray and filled it with seafood dinner. There was a happy din in here, a hundred conversations.
Saturday, April 3, 2004
Recalling `The Night of the Saw'
Professor Longhair clipped the corner of the barn, his left foot slipped and he almost, almost went to the ground. I caught him by the belt loops and we kept moving. Quickly.
We must work to break down walls
I know of no other festival that is as timely and pertinent today as is Passover, because it focuses attention upon a curse that has afflicted humanity from time immemorial.
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Changes help clarify, simplify laws
This commentary seeks to inform the public about grandparents' legal rights to play a meaningful role in their grandchildren's lives.
Many ways to tell when photo taken
At 7 p.m. Tuesday, Huntington Memorial Library will hold "A Panel of Local History Authors." The library will welcome Marilyn Dufresne, David Brenner, Dominick Reisen and Mark Simonson, each an author of an Arcadia-published book.
Tuesday, March 23, 2004
The French get a place at the table
COLUMBUS - "Step on the board, Squashtian," I said, corrupting his name because that's the way Buddy pronounces it.
Saturday, March 20, 2004
A truly upstate vacation
It is possible, having grown up in and around Binghamton, my standards of civic beauty are a bit skewed.
Hinduism an old, accepting religion
Hinduism is the oldest and most misunderstood religion. It is older than the Western religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam and the Eastern religions of Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, which are its offspring. Hinduism originated in India and has slightly more than 850 million adherents throughout the world.
Saturday, March 13, 2004
Kids can learn a lot in research
When folks reminisce about the past, there are some who would claim to have no regrets. Not true for the family historian. The past is often filled with missed opportunities and our hearts filled with the sinking feeling that we started our hobby just a year or two too late.
Film violent, but forces you to think
Mel Gibson's film "The Passion of the Christ" elicited from me a number of not-always-consistent responses and interpretations.
God rejoices, cries with us in all of our milk, honey times
At last we are approaching the middle of March! Of course we know in the Oneonta area March can be completely unpredictable and winter may still have some nasty surprises up through May, but usually things begin to improve. Another winter is finally coming to an end.
Wednesday, March 6, 2004
Drawing lines with power of politics
The question of drawing the borders for legislative districts and apportioning population thereto has been with us from the beginning of the republic.
Sounds of my not-so-angry youth echo
My first experience with punk: There's a band in my high school cafeteria playing Nirvana covers. A skinny kid with a mohawk cuts across the floor with his shoulders down and his hair up. He meets the unmovable object mid-air: Big Guy on Campus wearing football jacket.
We must teach kids golden rule
The golden rule — the same message of all the religions — the same message from God to all of his people throughout the ages. The basis of our spiritual heritage from birth. We are born with a dual nature — the material and the spiritual — although God tells us that we are in reality eternally spiritual.
Tuesday, March 2, 2004
Nader says what people need to hear this election
COLUMBUS - He was waving a sheet of paper as he shouldered his way through the back door, and I knew we were going to get it. Brown eyes smoldering, he peeled off his steamed-up glasses. He wore no hat; his gray hair was a little wild, seemed longer than usual.
Saturday, February 28, 2004
Civil War researchers get a gem
One of the best things about the Internet is that it is not a static entity. If you think you've exhausted every possible avenue of research, just check back on the 'Net in a few weeks, days or even hours and you may find your answer.
Now is good time to learn about Christian church
Many people do not go to church, or very seldom go to church. I'm writing this for you. A special time is beginning ... leading up to Easter, and I want to tell you about it, because you may find it meaningful, even life-changing.
Saturday, February 21, 2004
Lenten season helps us renew vows of baptism
In the Roman Catholic tradition, the Lenten season has a character that expresses who we are as Christians and who we seek to become in Christ.
Freedom can mean `debt-free'
I was living on Main Street in Oneonta. It was Saturday and it was hot. I spent most of the day walking up to Wilber Lake with a fishing pole and a Coke. I didn't catch anything, but I had a good feeling walking in the heat past thistles and tall grass and a few cows.
Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Senate works to toughen DWI laws
The New York State Senate has passed a package of legislation that enacts stronger criminal penalties for repeat drunken drivers and limits their ability to get plea bargains for reduced criminal sentences.
Guest Column: It's not to late to resolve to quit smoking
If you are a smoker, you've probably considered quitting at some point in time. Perhaps you thought about it during the "Great American Smoke Out" held each November to encourage cigarette smokers to quit.
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
Kerry's turn soon will come
COLUMBUS - The last tree was the hardest because the chain was dullest. But the smoky saw kept grinding and screeching until the tall ash wavered, then slowly tipped over. It sliced though the branches of its neighbors, like a bully going through a crowd, on its way to the snow-covered ground.
Saturday, February 14, 2004
History's mysteries often hard to solve
Nora Camp Schofield, where are you? Or, rather, where were you? Many times over the past few years, people have relayed stories to me of finding lost relatives or connecting with family members through genealogical research. It has never seemed to me all that incredible that either of these events should occur. Well, as the old saying goes, don't knock it 'til you've tried it.
World needs love of God and others
"Love me tender, love me true" (Elvis, 1956). What power in true love! Valentine's Day is one of the most-important days on the calendar. At least to hear my wife, one might think so.
Saturday, February 7, 2004
There's bit of big city inside me after all
My grandmother took me to the places my grandfather wouldn't go. The Reveille on Main Street in Johnson City; the Burger King on Main Street in Binghamton; the Catholic Shop; Volunteers; a few pizza joints — always on Main Street or just off to the side.
Tuesday, February 3, 2004
New guitar can help beat election blues
SYRACUSE - I was still in the shower when snow tires came crunching down the driveway, stopping by the back door. I dried off quickly and jumped into long johns and jeans.
Saturday, January 31, 2004
Genograms help chart illnesses
When we think about why we research our family's history, many reasons come to mind. It may prove surprising the variety of purposes genealogical research serves.
Muslims sacrifice for Allah during time of Hajj, Eid
This weekend is the Hajj — the pilgrimage to Mecca — which every Muslim must do at least once. The precise destination is Baitul Allah, the House of Allah (God), known as "Kaaba," which Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, built with his son Ismail, as an act of worship to the One God.
Saturday, January 24, 2004
Plans must not shortchange upstate
In 2001, Gov. George Pataki called our school finance system "a dinosaur" and said "we should scrap it altogether and create a new school aid formula that is fair, simple and sustainable."
An addiction I won't even try to beat
I was a long way from home, a little confused, and convinced I could find literary inspiration only in the life of a poor boy on the road. I had a yellowing hotel room. The channels were full of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama preachers. And "The Hustler."
Many don't value all that Christ has done for us
One thing that I have learned in my 42 years of walking on this planet is that I am pretty much your average person. The way I think and the things I do are done by millions of others with whom I share this planet.
Tuesday, January 20, 2004
Self-raised meat is only safe meat
COLUMBUS - "What's for dinner?" asked Uncle Chet, sitting down on the piano stool to take off his tall boots. "Steak," I said, shaking off my barn boots, slipping past him with an armful of wood. "Bet you're going through that pretty fast," he said.
Saturday, January 17, 2004
Publication can be very beneficial
Genealogists have two distinct jobs. The first is to research and locate records about our family's history. If we are lucky, our second job is to be the repository for family papers, heirlooms and memorabilia.
Strict regs help prevent disease
Much has been written in the past few weeks about BSE, or mad cow disease. It is important that consumers know and rely on the facts, using the best sources of information available regarding the safety of beef in the United States.
Messianic lessons help strengthen children, parents
The name I attributed to my evolving belief system two years ago, in this column, was as a Messianic, God-Fearing Gentile (Hegg, 2002) who had been grafted into the remnant of Yisrael (Romans 11:17-24).
Saturday, January 10, 2004
Christians need church, each other
Who needs church? Have you ever uttered those words? Have you ever heard someone else ask that question, not as a sincere inquiry, but as a statement suggesting the unimportance of church attendance?
Waiting and working for `real' tip
It was a pretty wedding, and I was sorry to be there. I was bleeding from my left hand — blood covered most of the arm — and I didn't know why. I smelled; like fish, blood, a little sweat and dried ocean water.
Tuesday, January 6, 2004
Let's handle Saddam the American way — fairly
COLUMBUS - The talk on New Year's Eve veered sharply to politics after we'd finished dessert and I poured creme de menthe.
Saturday, January 3, 2004
Americans captured but not lost
The English did not give up easily. For a period of time after the Revolutionary War, relations between the United States and Great Britain were, shall we say, strained. Certainly, attempts to establish commercial ties were difficult. In addition, by 1803, Great Britain was at war with France and the English were lacking in manpower.
God has a place for all innocents
Many Christians observe Dec. 28 as the Day of the Holy Innocents. The Innocents are the infants of Bethlehem King Herod slaughtered after Jesus was born. St. Matthew, who tells the story in the second chapter of his Gospel, says that, after the slaughter, "Rachel was weeping for her children. She refused to be consoled, because they were no more."
